Sarasota County Nature Events October 2012

We are pleased to offer you nature events for the month of October. Fall has arrived! This month there are yet more choices to entice you outdoors.

Please read each event for specific dates, times, locations, directions and registration information, for they all differ.

A big thank you to our volunteer guides and staff!

Pre-registration is required for all of the listed activities.FOR ON-LINE REGISTRATION – Go to www.scgov.net. Click Calendar on the left. Click the ‘All Events’ drop down list, choose ‘Nature Walks’ and ‘go’.

If you are having problems with on-line registration, please contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources. To help us provide quality programming, we would appreciate your feedback on this program. A post-event survey will be emailed to all program participants.

Remember to respect our fellow participants, animals, lands and air space. To further enhance the experience at Sarasota County’s natural lands, please help us by picking up and properly disposing of litter, respecting others experience with no cell phone usage, no pets, and please, no smoking. Thank you!

(Please note: Your registration information will not be shared and will be used only for contact purposes in the event of inclement weather or walk cancelation.) If you received this email in error or do not wish to receive this email e-alert, please email dzeilman@scgov.net or call 941-650-0696 to be removed. Thank you.

Phillippi Farmhouse Market – It’s back!

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

October through May 2013

Location: Phillippi Estate Park

5500 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

Summary: Mark your calendars for Wednesday, Oct. 3 when Sarasota’s only weekday farmers market re-opens for its 4th season at Phillippi Estate Park at 5500 South Tamiami Trail in Sarasota. The Phillippi Farmhouse Market takes place every Wednesday from October through May from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Grand opening day October 3rd entertainment features the Sarasota Concert Band from 10 to 11 a.m.

This outdoor market features locally grown fruits and vegetables, including local USDA certified organic produce and hydroponics. There will be plants, herbs, hanging baskets, shrubs and cut flowers for sale along with a wide variety of locally baked goods, delicious barbeque, plenty of food and beverage vendors, arts and crafts, soaps and candles and always live music.

The market hosts a Welcome Tent with plenty of information about what’s happening in the greater Sarasota area. Well-behaved dogs are always welcome in this dog-friendly park. There will be market raffles with gift certificates and product give-aways and the market’s new, recyclable market bags. There is ample free parking and handicap accessibility. For more information, go to www.farmhousemarket.org or call 941-861-5000.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a nature walk along the trails at Phillippi Estate Park on Wednesday, October 3, 2012, from 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. We will stroll along the shoreline then venture into the coastal hammock to learn about mangroves, epiphytes and the effects of exotic plants on native ecosystems.

Phillippi Estate Park is a scenic, 60-acre natural area park located south of downtown Sarasota on the shores of Phillippi Creek. The park features environmental and historic attractions including the historic Edson Keith Mansion and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Participants should wear appropriate shoes for walking on both paved and sandy trails. Recommended items to bring are camera/binoculars, drinking water, insect repellent, and sun protection. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

To reach Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, from I-75, take Exit 205 (Clark Road). Travel west on Clark Road for approximately 5 miles to the intersection with US 41. Turn/Merge Right onto northbound Tamiami Trail (US 41) for 0.8 miles. Turn left into the park entrance at the traffic signal for Constitution Blvd. After entering the park, keep right towards the Edson Keith Mansion parking lot. Meet at the trailhead in the northeast corner of the paved parking lot.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a ‘lunch and learn’ nature topic talk at Shamrock Park on Thursday, October 4, 2012, from 12:15 – 1 p.m. The nature topic talk will be about Florida’s Pines.

Participants are encouraged to bring their lunch to enjoy during the program.

Shamrock Park contains some of the last remaining scrub habitat in the coastal area of Sarasota County and supports populations of Florida scrub jay and gopher tortoise.

To reach Shamrock Park, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice, from the North, take I-75 South to Exit 200, SR 681 South toward Venice traveling approximately 3 miles to South Tamiami Trail/US 41. When SR 681 splits, head left to merge southbound on Tamiami Trail for approximately 2.7 miles to the Venice 41-Bypass. At the 41-Bypass split, keep left onto the 41-Bypass continuing approximately 3.2 miles to Shamrock Drive. Turn right on Shamrock Drive traveling 1.6 miles to the park entrance on your right. Once in the park, continue past the basketball and tennis courts to the Nature Center.

Meet inside the classroom on the east side of the Nature Center building.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a nature hike through the hardwood hammock habitats of Rothenbach Park on Monday, October 8, 2012, from 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. The hike is approximately 1 mile in length. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the majestic oaks in the natural area of this multi-use park, and a chance at seeing the sometimes present white-tailed deer, while learning about the hardwood hammock habitat and its inhabitants.

Note: Program may reschedule if gravel access drive is still closed due to wash-out.

Rothenbach Park is unique among all Sarasota County Parks in that it is the site of the (closed) capped Bee Ridge Landfill – a mountain of trash turned into a community treasure. The Bee Ridge Landfill was open at this site from 1972 until its closure and final capping in 2000. The site remains under Florida Department of Environmental Protection oversight as a capped landfill.

Participants should wear appropriate shoes for walking on both paved and sandy trails. Recommended items to bring are camera/binoculars, drinking water, insect repellent, and sun protection. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

To reach Rothenbach Park, 8650 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, take I-75 to Exit 207 (Bee Ridge Road). Travel east on Bee Ridge Road for approximately 3 miles to the end. The park entrance will be on your right. Meet at the Turkey Trail trailhead at Rothenbach Park. The parking lot for this trailhead is located on the opposite side of the landfill mound from the park entrance and accessible by a gravel access drive. After passing through the park gate and passing the park sign on the left, take a left onto the access drive (paved to start). Of note, there are no restrooms at the meeting location. Restrooms are only at the pavilion.

“A Look at Four Members of the Genus Pluchea & Four Members of the Genus Vitis”

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

7:00 p.m.

Speakers: Al Squires and Denny Girard

Location: Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center

570 Bay Park Blvd.,Englewood

No registration necessary.

Summary: The Mangrove Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society welcomes the public to a presentation entitled, “A Look at four Members of the Genus Pluchea & four Members of the Genus Vitis”, October 9th, 7:00 p.m. in the Environmental Classroom at Lemon Bay Park in Englewood. This program is a window into popular species; native asters and grape vines perfect for your garden. Speakers Al Squires and Denny Girard are avid naturalists. Together they study native plants and lead nature tours in both Sarasota and Charlotte County. No registration is necessary.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Enjoy a leisurely walk on the west side of Manasota Scrub Preserve exploring regions seldom traveled by the regular visitors. It’s a nature walk at Manasota Scrub Preserve, in Englewood, Wednesday, October 10, 2012 from 9:00 -11:00 a.m., when amateur botanists and Florida Native Plant Society members Denny Girard & Al Squires will show plant detectives where to find the wildflowers thriving within the preserve.

The preserve is one of many public lands that are available through Sarasota County’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. In addition to numerous subtropical plants, visitors may hear the great-horned owl or northern quail, or view coasting eagles and red-tailed hawks overhead.

Participants can reach Manasota Scrub Preserve, 2695 Bridge St., Englewood by taking I -75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard). At the end of the exit ramp, turn south onto Jacaranda Boulevard and drive approximately 5.2 miles. Turn left at the “T” intersection of Jacaranda Blvd. and Englewood Road (State Road 776). Drive approximately 1.5 miles and turn west on to Manasota Beach Road,then south (left) on Bridge Street. The parking lot will be on your left.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Sarasota County is offering a guided insect identification nature walk at Red Bug Slough Preserve from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. on Friday, October 12, 2012. Sarasota County Volunteer and retired entomologist, Dr. Fred Santana, will lead participants through pine flatwoods and oak hammocks describing the little known insect denizens of the Preserve and introducing them to the insect diversity of nature and the role insects play in our environment.

Red Bug Slough Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. In addition to a wide variety of native plant species, the preserve also provides habitat for river otters, bobcats and various species of wading birds.

Participants should wear long pants, comfortable walking shoes that can get wet, and bring a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and a hand lens or magnifying glass, if possible. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

To get to Red Bug Slough Preserve, 5200 Beneva Road, Sarasota, take I -75 to Exit 205 (S.R. 72 or Clark Road). Go west on Clark Road to Beneva Road and turn right onto Beneva. Continue north on Beneva Road until you reach the preserve parking lot, located west of Beneva Road. Turn left and park in designated spaces.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a Threatened Species Nature Walk through coastal scrub habitats at Shamrock Park on Friday, October 12, 2012, from 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Guests will learn about scrub habitat, Florida’s endangered and threatened species, and have chances at seeing the resident Florida scrub jays and gopher tortoises, both listed threatened species.

Shamrock Park contains some of the last remaining scrub habitat in the coastal area of Sarasota County and supports populations of Florida scrub jay and gopher tortoise.

Participants should wear appropriate shoes for walking on both paved and sandy/grassy trails. Recommended items to bring are camera, binoculars, drinking water, insect repellent, and sun protection. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

To reach Shamrock Park, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice, from the North, take I-75 South to Exit 200, SR 681 South toward Venice traveling approximately 3 miles to South Tamiami Trail/US 41. When SR 681 splits, head left to merge southbound on Tamiami Trail for approximately 2.7 miles to the Venice 41-Bypass. At the 41-Bypass split, keep left onto the 41-Bypass continuing approximately 3.2 miles to Shamrock Drive. Turn right on Shamrock Drive traveling 1.6 miles to the park entrance on your right. Once in the park, continue past the basketball and tennis courts to the Nature Center. Meet on the deck of the Nature Center building.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Calling all F.I.S.H. – Folks Interested in Submerged Habitats! Get a little wet, have a little fun and learn a lot! Join American Littoral Society Biologist Chuck Idelberger on Saturday, October 13 from 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. on a search for marine life in Lemon Bay. Using hand and seine nets, you will search shallow waters and sea grass beds, observing, collecting, and discussing the natural history of some of the many interesting fishes and other animals that inhabit Lemon Bay.

Participants should meet at the park amphitheater, north of the main building near the canoe launch. Wear wading type shoes, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, and bring a towel and drinking water. Prepare to get wet and muddy! All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

You may reach Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, 570 Bay Park Blvd.,Englewood by taking I -75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard), turn toward CR 765/Englewood/Venice, and traveling south 5.3 miles to Englewood Road (SR 776). Turn left on Englewood Road (SR 776) (4.1 miles), turning right onto Old Englewood Road (1 mile), turning a slight right onto Kilbourne Avenue to the first right onto Morrison Avenue then the first left onto Curtis Boulevard, then the first right onto Brengle Avenue and the park entrance will be straight ahead.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a casual bicycle ride along the paved trail around Rothenbach Park on Monday, October 15, 2012, from 8:30-10:30 a.m. The bicycle ride is approx. 3.5 miles in length. Participants must bring their own bicycle and helmet. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the majestic oaks in the natural area of this multi-use park, learn about the hardwood hammock, as well as the closed landfill, and have a chance at seeing the sometimes present white-tailed deer!

Participants should wear appropriate clothes and shoes for bicycling. Recommended items to bring are camera/binoculars, water, snacks, insect repellent, sun protection, and have the ability to carry such items. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

Rothenbach Park is unique among all Sarasota County Parks in that it is the site of the (closed) capped Bee Ridge Landfill – a mountain of trash turned into a community treasure. The Bee Ridge Landfill was open at this site from 1972 until its closure and final capping in 2000. The site remains under Florida Department of Environmental Protection oversight as a capped landfill.

To reach Rothenbach Park, 8650 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, take I-75 to Exit 207 (Bee Ridge Road). Travel east on Bee Ridge Road for approximately 3 miles to the end. The park entrance will be on your right. After entering the park, keep right towards the pavilion parking. Meet at the Pavilion at Rothenbach Park.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Environmental Specialist Jeff Weber on Thursday, October 18, 2012 from 9 – 11 AM as he leads participants on a woodland stroll from upland habitats to the shores of Shakett Creek at Pocono Trail Preserve in Nokomis. Along the way, participants will see a variety of plant and animal species including live oaks, eastern red cedars, cabbage palms, bracken ferns, osprey, wading birds and other wildlife common to the area.

Pocono Trail Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. The site contains forested hammocks, pine flatwoods and shoreline along Shakett Creek that provide habitat for osprey, migrating songbirds and wading birds.

Directions to Pocono Trail Preserve, 189 Pocono Trail, Nokomis: Take I-75 south to exit 200 (S.R. 681) toward Venice/Osprey. Merge onto U.S. 41 and travel 2.2 miles to Colonia Lane. Turn left on Colonia and left again onto Nash Avenue. Drive one block to Pocono Trail and park along the north road shoulder.

From the southern portion of the county, take I-75 north to exit 195 (Laurel Road) and travel west toward Laurel. Turn left onto U.S. 41 and drive south toward Venice. Turn left onto Colonia Lane and left again onto Nash Ave. Drive one block to Pocono Trail and park along the north road shoulder.

Summary:Calling all birding enthusiasts! Be tantalized and wowed by the vast array of bird species and nature found at the beautiful T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve (Carlton). Join Sarasota County Volunteer Charlie Sample as he leads you on a birding nature journey starting on Saturday, October 20, 2012 from 7:15 am – 1:00 pm. You won’t be disappointed!

Fall/Winter/Spring Birding Diversity schedule:

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Saturday, December 29, 2012

Saturday, January 5, 2013;

Sunday, February 10, 2013;

Sunday, March 17, 2013;

Saturday, April 6, 2013;

Saturday, May 4, 2013;

Friday, June 14, 2013

The Carlton Reserve, located at 1800 Mabry Carlton Parkway in Venice, was purchased in the 1980’s for public water supply source and for conservation/ recreation purposes.

Space for this event is very limited (14) and reservations are necessary. To register, contact Charlie Sample directly via email at csample41@verizon.net or phone at 941-468-1231.

The birding outing consists of a short walk around the Park area followed by a carpool trek into the Carlton backcountry with stops along the way to locate birds. Please note: Registration is for the entire event – no early departures because of the distance traveled. CANCELLATIONS: Please notify the guide that you are canceling as soon as possible at 941-468-1231. The event is for beginning birders to expert; however, young children under 12 are not encouraged because of the distance covered.

To reach the reserve located at 1800 Mabry Carlton Parkway in Venice, take I-75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard). Turn (North) at the exit and then right at the next intersection (Border Road). Drive 2 ½ miles, across the bridge, over the river and turning left at the stop sign (South Moon Drive) and entering the Mabry Carlton Parkway, then turn right into the Carlton Reserve’s parking entrance. Follow signs to the parking lot. Participants should meet at the parking lot at 7:15 am for an adventure in nature!

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Sarasota County is offering a guided wildflower walk at Curry Creek Preserve in Venice from 9 – 11 AM on Saturday, October 20, 2012. Sarasota County Environmental Specialist, Jeff Weber, will lead participants through pine flatwoods and oak hammocks describing the wildflowers of the Preserve and introducing them to the plant diversity of nature and the surrounding habitat.

Curry Creek Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. In addition to a wide variety of native plant species, the preserve also provides habitat for gopher tortoises, bobcats and a wide variety of bird species.

Participants can get to the Pinebrook Road EAST entrance toCurry Creek Preserve by taking I -75 to Exit 195 (Laurel Road). Go west on Laurel Road for approximately 0.3 miles and turn left at the traffic light onto Pinebrook Road heading south. Go 1.5 miles passing the traffic light at Edmondson Road and look for the preserve sign on the right. Slightly before you get to the preserve sign, turn right into the driveway directly across from Water Street and then bear left onto preserve property at 1500 Pinebrook Road, Venice. Park on the grass to the south of the preserve sign and entrance. Participants will gather for the walk at the cable gate entrance.

Bring your Toddler or Preschooler to Sleeping Turtles Preserve North and Become a “Little Naturalist”

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Guide: Sarasota County Staff

Location: Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

3462 Border Road, Venice

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.Please do not register YOUR name. Instead register separately each participating child’s first and last name. Please also include the child’s age in the NOTES section of the registration form!

Summary: “Looking for an alternative to the typical playgroup?” Then bring your toddler or preschooler to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at Sarasota County Government’s exciting nature program, The Little Naturalist.

The Little Naturalist, for children ages 2 – 4, is from 10:00 – 11:00 AM on Tuesday, October 23, 2012 at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North. This program includes a short guided nature walk, a variety of hands-on nature themed activities, a snack and story. All participating children must be registered and accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.

This preserve is one of many that are available to the public through the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. In addition to the numerous subtropical plants, visitors may observe eagles or osprey hunting over the river corridor.

Participants should wear comfortable weather-appropriate clothes, a jacket, walking shoes that can get wet (no flip-flops!), and bring a hat, sun screen, drinking water and camera (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

Participants can reach the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North, 3462 Border Road, Venicefrom northbound I-75, by taking exit 193 and then turning right on to Jacaranda Boulevard. From southbound I-75, take exit 193 and turn left on to Jacaranda Boulevard. Proceed north approximately 0.7 miles on Jacaranda Blvd. to the stop sign and turn right onto Border Road. Proceed approximately 2 miles east on Border Road to the bridge over the Myakka River. As you approach the bridge, the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North parking lot will be on the left (north side), immediately before the bridge.

The program minimum is 5 children. Space for this walk is limited to no more than 18 children.For more information and details about the Little Naturalist Program, please contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask to speak with the Little Naturalist Program staff.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Environmental Specialist Jeff Weber on Wednesday, October 24, 2012 from 9 – 11 AM as he leads participants on a nature hike through pine flatwoods and oak hammocks describing the plants and wildlife of Red Bug Slough Preserve.

Red Bug Slough Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. In addition to a wide variety of native plant species, the preserve is home to bobcats, an occasional river otter, and an assortment of bird species, including red-shouldered hawks, osprey, barred owls and wood ducks.

To get to Red Bug Slough Preserve at 5200 Beneva Road, Sarasota, take I -75 to Exit 205 (S.R. 72 or Clark Road). Go west on Clark Road to Beneva Road and turn right onto Beneva. Continue north on Beneva Road until you reach the preserve parking lot, located west of Beneva Road. Turn left and park in designated spaces.

Pre-registration is required. Space is limited and other requirements apply. Registration closes 48 hours prior to event. Register early, this program fills quickly! On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net. Of note, this is the last program in this series until early April 2013.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalists as they lead a casual kayak journey along the shallow waters of beautiful Lemon Bay launching from Lemon Bay Park on Thursday, October 25, 2012, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Learn about Florida’s mangroves, seagrasses, and oyster beds in the area. Spy wading birds, explore meandering mangrove tunnels and perhaps catch a glimpse of a manatee or dolphin in the bay waters!

The program is an “intermediate” paddle of approximately 3.5 hours in length and 2.5 miles round-trip on bay waters and narrow mangrove tunnels. Kayak program includes several on-water stops for nature interpretation.

Participants must bring their own kayak, paddle, and safety gear as required by the U.S. Coast Guard. Participants must be able to portage kayak to the kayak/canoe launch (a distance of approximately 320 feet) and down a stepped slope to the water’s edge.

We recommend paddlers wear sun protection and clothes and shoes that can get wet and muddy; and bring insect repellent, snacks and plenty of drinking water. Landings are wet landings therefore wet-shoes are highly recommended. For limited maneuvering in mangrove tunnels, shorter kayak and break-away/short paddle recommended.
To reach Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, 570 Bay Park Blvd, Englewood, from the North, take I-75 South to Exit 200, SR 681 South toward Venice traveling approximately 3 miles to South Tamiami Trail/US 41. When SR 681 splits, head left to merge southbound on Tamiami Trail for approximately 2.7 miles to the Venice 41-Bypass. At the 41-Bypass split, keep left onto the 41-Bypass continuing South for another 5.1 miles. Merge right onto FL-776/Englewood Rd and continue on FL-776 for 4.8 miles. Turn right onto Old Englewood Rd for 1 mile. Take slight right onto Kilbourne Ave. Take the 1st right onto Morrison Ave. Take the 1st left onto Curtis Blvd. Take the 1st right onto Brengle Ave, and turn Right into Lemon Bay Park. Meet in the parking lot.

For more information contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 or send an email to jrogers@scgov.net.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalists, Lynda Eppinger and E.G. Bennington, a nature walk in search of wildflowers at Urfer Family Park on Friday, October 26, 2012, from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the plants, a bit of history, and habitat as we traverse herbaceous and forested wetlands, as well as pine flatwoods. Feel miles away in this nearby park nestled in a residential area.

Participants should wear appropriate shoes for walking on both paved and uneven sandy trails. Recommended items to bring are camera/binoculars, water, insect repellent, and sun protection.

To reach Urfer Family Park, take I-75 to Exit 207 Bee Ridge Road west to Honore Avenue, approximately 0.9 miles. Turn left on Honore Avenue. Park will be located on your immediate right with ample parking available after the entrance area. Participants should meet at the pavilion.

For more information, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 or email leppinge@scgov.net.

“Discovering Insects and Their Ways” – A guided insect identification walk at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

Friday, October 26, 2012

9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Guide: Dr. Fred Santana

Location: Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

3462 Border Road, Venice

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Sarasota County is offering a guided insect identification nature walk at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North in Venice from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. on Friday, October 26, 2012. Entomologist Dr. Fred Santana will lead participants through pine flatwoods, oak scrub and other habitats found on site.

This preserve is one of many that are available to the public through the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. In addition to the numerous subtropical plants, visitors may observe eagles or osprey hunting over the river corridor.

Participants can reach the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North, 3462 Border Road, Venicefrom northbound I-75, take exit 193 and turn right. From southbound I-75 take exit 193 and turn left. Proceed north 1/2 mile on Jacaranda Blvd. to the stop sign and turn right onto Border Road. Proceed approximately 3 miles east on Border Road to the bridge over the Myakka River. As you approach the bridge, the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North parking lot will be on the left (north side), immediately before the bridge.

Also join us for the Green Business Leadership Council of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce 2nd Annual “Green Business Roundtable” the evening before, Monday, October 29, 5:00- 7:30 pm at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, Lakewood Ranch. $20 registration or save with a special “Combo” rate of $45 registration offered by Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce for both the Chamber and Sustainable Communities events. Inquiries can be emailed to npowers@scgov.net.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: The hunt is on! Come search for fall wildflowers while exploring South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve with Sarasota County volunteers Al Squires and Denny Girard from 9 – 11 a.m. on Wednesday, October 31, 2012. Al and Denny will introduce you to flowers such as blazing star and paintbrush while sharing information about the native vegetation. Participants will pass through a brackish water wetland, a high salinity mangrove area, scrubby flatwoods, and coastal woodlands bordering Lemon Bay.

This is one of many lands that are available through Sarasota County’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. In addition to the numerous subtropical plants, the preserve supports nesting bald eagles, Florida scrub jays and gopher tortoises, all protected animal species. The preserve was the subject of a recent radical and very successful habitat restoration and hydrologic project.

Participants can reach South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve, 6200 Osprey Road, Venice by taking I -75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Blvd.). At the end of the exit ramp, turn south onto Jacaranda Boulevard and drive approximately 5.2 miles. At the “T” intersection of Jacaranda Blvd. and Englewood Road (State Road 776), turn left (south). Drive approximately 1.5 miles and turn west on to Manasota Beach Road. Continue about a mile until the road curves left. At the curve turn right onto Belvidere Road. Next turn right onto Pheasant Road then left onto Macon Road. Turn left onto Osprey Road and park in the lot at the end of the street.

Space for this walk is limited to 20.

We are pleased to offer you nature events for the month of October. Fall has arrived! This month there are yet more choices to entice you outdoors.

Please read each event for specific dates, times, locations, directions and registration information, for they all differ.

A big thank you to our volunteer guides and staff!

Pre-registration is required for all of the listed activities. FOR ON-LINE REGISTRATION – Go to www.scgov.net. Click Calendar on the left. Click the ‘All Events’ drop down list, choose ‘Nature Walks’ and ‘go’.

If you are having problems with on-line registration, please contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask for Natural Resources. To help us provide quality programming, we would appreciate your feedback on this program. A post-event survey will be emailed to all program participants.

To learn more about Sarasota County Natural Lands and Parks click here: www.discovernaturalsarasota.org.

Remember to respect our fellow participants, animals, lands and air space. To further enhance the experience at Sarasota County’s natural lands, please help us by picking up and properly disposing of litter, respecting others experience with no cell phone usage, no pets, and please, no smoking. Thank you!

(Please note: Your registration information will not be shared and will be used only for contact purposes in the event of inclement weather or walk cancelation.) If you received this email in error or do not wish to receive this email e-alert, please email dzeilman@scgov.net or call 941-650-0696 to be removed. Thank you.

Phillippi Farmhouse Market – It’s back!

Wednesday, October 3, 2012

9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.

October through May 2013

Location: Phillippi Estate Park

5500 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota

Summary: Mark your calendars for Wednesday, Oct. 3 when Sarasota’s only weekday farmers market re-opens for its 4th season at Phillippi Estate Park at 5500 South Tamiami Trail in Sarasota. The Phillippi Farmhouse Market takes place every Wednesday from October through May from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Grand opening day October 3rd entertainment features the Sarasota Concert Band from 10 to 11 a.m.

This outdoor market features locally grown fruits and vegetables, including local USDA certified organic produce and hydroponics. There will be plants, herbs, hanging baskets, shrubs and cut flowers for sale along with a wide variety of locally baked goods, delicious barbeque, plenty of food and beverage vendors, arts and crafts, soaps and candles and always live music.

The market hosts a Welcome Tent with plenty of information about what’s happening in the greater Sarasota area. Well-behaved dogs are always welcome in this dog-friendly park. There will be market raffles with gift certificates and product give-aways and the market’s new, recyclable market bags. There is ample free parking and handicap accessibility. For more information, go to www.farmhousemarket.org or call 941-861-5000.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a nature walk along the trails at Phillippi Estate Park on Wednesday, October 3, 2012, from 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. We will stroll along the shoreline then venture into the coastal hammock to learn about mangroves, epiphytes and the effects of exotic plants on native ecosystems.

Phillippi Estate Park is a scenic, 60-acre natural area park located south of downtown Sarasota on the shores of Phillippi Creek. The park features environmental and historic attractions including the historic Edson Keith Mansion and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Participants should wear appropriate shoes for walking on both paved and sandy trails. Recommended items to bring are camera/binoculars, drinking water, insect repellent, and sun protection. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

To reach Phillippi Estate Park, 5500 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, from I-75, take Exit 205 (Clark Road). Travel west on Clark Road for approximately 5 miles to the intersection with US 41. Turn/Merge Right onto northbound Tamiami Trail (US 41) for 0.8 miles. Turn left into the park entrance at the traffic signal for Constitution Blvd. After entering the park, keep right towards the Edson Keith Mansion parking lot. Meet at the trailhead in the northeast corner of the paved parking lot.

For more information, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 or send email to jrogers@scgov.net.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a ‘lunch and learn’ nature topic talk at Shamrock Park on Thursday, October 4, 2012, from 12:15 – 1 p.m. The nature topic talk will be about Florida’s Pines.

Participants are encouraged to bring their lunch to enjoy during the program.

Shamrock Park contains some of the last remaining scrub habitat in the coastal area of Sarasota County and supports populations of Florida scrub jay and gopher tortoise.

To reach Shamrock Park, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice, from the North, take I-75 South to Exit 200, SR 681 South toward Venice traveling approximately 3 miles to South Tamiami Trail/US 41. When SR 681 splits, head left to merge southbound on Tamiami Trail for approximately 2.7 miles to the Venice 41-Bypass. At the 41-Bypass split, keep left onto the 41-Bypass continuing approximately 3.2 miles to Shamrock Drive. Turn right on Shamrock Drive traveling 1.6 miles to the park entrance on your right. Once in the park, continue past the basketball and tennis courts to the Nature Center.

Meet inside the classroom on the east side of the Nature Center building.

For more information contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 or send email to jrogers@scgov.net.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a nature hike through the hardwood hammock habitats of Rothenbach Park on Monday, October 8, 2012, from 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. The hike is approximately 1 mile in length. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the majestic oaks in the natural area of this multi-use park, and a chance at seeing the sometimes present white-tailed deer, while learning about the hardwood hammock habitat and its inhabitants.

Note: Program may reschedule if gravel access drive is still closed due to wash-out.

Rothenbach Park is unique among all Sarasota County Parks in that it is the site of the (closed) capped Bee Ridge Landfill – a mountain of trash turned into a community treasure. The Bee Ridge Landfill was open at this site from 1972 until its closure and final capping in 2000. The site remains under Florida Department of Environmental Protection oversight as a capped landfill.

Participants should wear appropriate shoes for walking on both paved and sandy trails. Recommended items to bring are camera/binoculars, drinking water, insect repellent, and sun protection. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

To reach Rothenbach Park, 8650 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, take I-75 to Exit 207 (Bee Ridge Road). Travel east on Bee Ridge Road for approximately 3 miles to the end. The park entrance will be on your right. Meet at the Turkey Trail trailhead at Rothenbach Park. The parking lot for this trailhead is located on the opposite side of the landfill mound from the park entrance and accessible by a gravel access drive. After passing through the park gate and passing the park sign on the left, take a left onto the access drive (paved to start). Of note, there are no restrooms at the meeting location. Restrooms are only at the pavilion.

For more information contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 or send email to jrogers@scgov.net.

“A Look at Four Members of the Genus Pluchea & Four Members of the Genus Vitis”

Tuesday, October 9, 2012

7:00 p.m.

Speakers: Al Squires and Denny Girard

Location: Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center

570 Bay Park Blvd., Englewood

No registration necessary.

Summary: The Mangrove Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society welcomes the public to a presentation entitled, “A Look at four Members of the Genus Pluchea & four Members of the Genus Vitis”, October 9th, 7:00 p.m. in the Environmental Classroom at Lemon Bay Park in Englewood. This program is a window into popular species; native asters and grape vines perfect for your garden. Speakers Al Squires and Denny Girard are avid naturalists. Together they study native plants and lead nature tours in both Sarasota and Charlotte County. No registration is necessary.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Enjoy a leisurely walk on the west side of Manasota Scrub Preserve exploring regions seldom traveled by the regular visitors. It’s a nature walk at Manasota Scrub Preserve, in Englewood, Wednesday, October 10, 2012 from 9:00 -11:00 a.m., when amateur botanists and Florida Native Plant Society members Denny Girard & Al Squires will show plant detectives where to find the wildflowers thriving within the preserve.

The preserve is one of many public lands that are available through Sarasota County’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. In addition to numerous subtropical plants, visitors may hear the great-horned owl or northern quail, or view coasting eagles and red-tailed hawks overhead.

Participants can reach Manasota Scrub Preserve, 2695 Bridge St., Englewood by taking I -75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard). At the end of the exit ramp, turn south onto Jacaranda Boulevard and drive approximately 5.2 miles. Turn left at the “T” intersection of Jacaranda Blvd. and Englewood Road (State Road 776). Drive approximately 1.5 miles and turn west on to Manasota Beach Road,then south (left) on Bridge Street. The parking lot will be on your left.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Sarasota County is offering a guided insect identification nature walk at Red Bug Slough Preserve from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. on Friday, October 12, 2012. Sarasota County Volunteer and retired entomologist, Dr. Fred Santana, will lead participants through pine flatwoods and oak hammocks describing the little known insect denizens of the Preserve and introducing them to the insect diversity of nature and the role insects play in our environment.

Red Bug Slough Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. In addition to a wide variety of native plant species, the preserve also provides habitat for river otters, bobcats and various species of wading birds.

Participants should wear long pants, comfortable walking shoes that can get wet, and bring a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, drinking water, binoculars (optional), camera and a hand lens or magnifying glass, if possible. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

To get to Red Bug Slough Preserve, 5200 Beneva Road, Sarasota, take I -75 to Exit 205 (S.R. 72 or Clark Road). Go west on Clark Road to Beneva Road and turn right onto Beneva. Continue north on Beneva Road until you reach the preserve parking lot, located west of Beneva Road. Turn left and park in designated spaces.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a Threatened Species Nature Walk through coastal scrub habitats at Shamrock Park on Friday, October 12, 2012, from 8:00 a.m. – 9:30 a.m. Guests will learn about scrub habitat, Florida’s endangered and threatened species, and have chances at seeing the resident Florida scrub jays and gopher tortoises, both listed threatened species.

Shamrock Park contains some of the last remaining scrub habitat in the coastal area of Sarasota County and supports populations of Florida scrub jay and gopher tortoise.

Participants should wear appropriate shoes for walking on both paved and sandy/grassy trails. Recommended items to bring are camera, binoculars, drinking water, insect repellent, and sun protection. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

To reach Shamrock Park, 3900 Shamrock Drive, Venice, from the North, take I-75 South to Exit 200, SR 681 South toward Venice traveling approximately 3 miles to South Tamiami Trail/US 41. When SR 681 splits, head left to merge southbound on Tamiami Trail for approximately 2.7 miles to the Venice 41-Bypass. At the 41-Bypass split, keep left onto the 41-Bypass continuing approximately 3.2 miles to Shamrock Drive. Turn right on Shamrock Drive traveling 1.6 miles to the park entrance on your right. Once in the park, continue past the basketball and tennis courts to the Nature Center. Meet on the deck of the Nature Center building.

For more information contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 or send email to jrogers@scgov.net.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Calling all F.I.S.H. – Folks Interested in Submerged Habitats! Get a little wet, have a little fun and learn a lot! Join American Littoral Society Biologist Chuck Idelberger on Saturday, October 13 from 9:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. on a search for marine life in Lemon Bay. Using hand and seine nets, you will search shallow waters and sea grass beds, observing, collecting, and discussing the natural history of some of the many interesting fishes and other animals that inhabit Lemon Bay.

Participants should meet at the park amphitheater, north of the main building near the canoe launch. Wear wading type shoes, a hat, sun screen, insect repellent, and bring a towel and drinking water. Prepare to get wet and muddy! All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

You may reach Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, 570 Bay Park Blvd., Englewood by taking I -75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard), turn toward CR 765/Englewood/Venice, and traveling south 5.3 miles to Englewood Road (SR 776). Turn left on Englewood Road (SR 776) (4.1 miles), turning right onto Old Englewood Road (1 mile), turning a slight right onto Kilbourne Avenue to the first right onto Morrison Avenue then the first left onto Curtis Boulevard, then the first right onto Brengle Avenue and the park entrance will be straight ahead.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalist, Jennifer Rogers, for a casual bicycle ride along the paved trail around Rothenbach Park on Monday, October 15, 2012, from 8:30-10:30 a.m. The bicycle ride is approx. 3.5 miles in length. Participants must bring their own bicycle and helmet. Guests will have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the majestic oaks in the natural area of this multi-use park, learn about the hardwood hammock, as well as the closed landfill, and have a chance at seeing the sometimes present white-tailed deer!

Participants should wear appropriate clothes and shoes for bicycling. Recommended items to bring are camera/binoculars, water, snacks, insect repellent, sun protection, and have the ability to carry such items. All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

Rothenbach Park is unique among all Sarasota County Parks in that it is the site of the (closed) capped Bee Ridge Landfill – a mountain of trash turned into a community treasure. The Bee Ridge Landfill was open at this site from 1972 until its closure and final capping in 2000. The site remains under Florida Department of Environmental Protection oversight as a capped landfill.

To reach Rothenbach Park, 8650 Bee Ridge Road, Sarasota, take I-75 to Exit 207 (Bee Ridge Road). Travel east on Bee Ridge Road for approximately 3 miles to the end. The park entrance will be on your right. After entering the park, keep right towards the pavilion parking. Meet at the Pavilion at Rothenbach Park.

For more information contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 or send an email to jrogers@scgov.net.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Environmental Specialist Jeff Weber on Thursday, October 18, 2012 from 9 – 11 AM as he leads participants on a woodland stroll from upland habitats to the shores of Shakett Creek at Pocono Trail Preserve in Nokomis. Along the way, participants will see a variety of plant and animal species including live oaks, eastern red cedars, cabbage palms, bracken ferns, osprey, wading birds and other wildlife common to the area.

Pocono Trail Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. The site contains forested hammocks, pine flatwoods and shoreline along Shakett Creek that provide habitat for osprey, migrating songbirds and wading birds.

Directions to Pocono Trail Preserve, 189 Pocono Trail, Nokomis: Take I-75 south to exit 200 (S.R. 681) toward Venice/Osprey. Merge onto U.S. 41 and travel 2.2 miles to Colonia Lane. Turn left on Colonia and left again onto Nash Avenue. Drive one block to Pocono Trail and park along the north road shoulder.

From the southern portion of the county, take I-75 north to exit 195 (Laurel Road) and travel west toward Laurel. Turn left onto U.S. 41 and drive south toward Venice. Turn left onto Colonia Lane and left again onto Nash Ave. Drive one block to Pocono Trail and park along the north road shoulder.

Summary: Calling all birding enthusiasts! Be tantalized and wowed by the vast array of bird species and nature found at the beautiful T. Mabry Carlton, Jr. Memorial Reserve (Carlton). Join Sarasota County Volunteer Charlie Sample as he leads you on a birding nature journey starting on Saturday, October 20, 2012 from 7:15 am – 1:00 pm. You won’t be disappointed!

Fall/Winter/Spring Birding Diversity schedule:

Saturday, October 20, 2012

Sunday, November 18, 2012

Saturday, December 29, 2012

Saturday, January 5, 2013;

Sunday, February 10, 2013;

Sunday, March 17, 2013;

Saturday, April 6, 2013;

Saturday, May 4, 2013;

Friday, June 14, 2013

The Carlton Reserve, located at 1800 Mabry Carlton Parkway in Venice, was purchased in the 1980’s for public water supply source and for conservation/ recreation purposes.

Space for this event is very limited (14) and reservations are necessary. To register, contact Charlie Sample directly via email at csample41@verizon.net or phone at 941-468-1231.

The birding outing consists of a short walk around the Park area followed by a carpool trek into the Carlton backcountry with stops along the way to locate birds. Please note: Registration is for the entire event – no early departures because of the distance traveled. CANCELLATIONS: Please notify the guide that you are canceling as soon as possible at 941-468-1231. The event is for beginning birders to expert; however, young children under 12 are not encouraged because of the distance covered.

To reach the reserve located at 1800 Mabry Carlton Parkway in Venice, take I-75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Boulevard). Turn (North) at the exit and then right at the next intersection (Border Road). Drive 2 ½ miles, across the bridge, over the river and turning left at the stop sign (South Moon Drive) and entering the Mabry Carlton Parkway, then turn right into the Carlton Reserve’s parking entrance. Follow signs to the parking lot. Participants should meet at the parking lot at 7:15 am for an adventure in nature!

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Sarasota County is offering a guided wildflower walk at Curry Creek Preserve in Venice from 9 – 11 AM on Saturday, October 20, 2012. Sarasota County Environmental Specialist, Jeff Weber, will lead participants through pine flatwoods and oak hammocks describing the wildflowers of the Preserve and introducing them to the plant diversity of nature and the surrounding habitat.

Curry Creek Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. In addition to a wide variety of native plant species, the preserve also provides habitat for gopher tortoises, bobcats and a wide variety of bird species.

Participants can get to the Pinebrook Road EAST entrance to Curry Creek Preserve by taking I -75 to Exit 195 (Laurel Road). Go west on Laurel Road for approximately 0.3 miles and turn left at the traffic light onto Pinebrook Road heading south. Go 1.5 miles passing the traffic light at Edmondson Road and look for the preserve sign on the right. Slightly before you get to the preserve sign, turn right into the driveway directly across from Water Street and then bear left onto preserve property at 1500 Pinebrook Road, Venice. Park on the grass to the south of the preserve sign and entrance. Participants will gather for the walk at the cable gate entrance.

Bring your Toddler or Preschooler to Sleeping Turtles Preserve North and Become a “Little Naturalist”

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Guide: Sarasota County Staff

Location: Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

3462 Border Road, Venice

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net. Please do not register YOUR name. Instead register separately each participating child’s first and last name. Please also include the child’s age in the NOTES section of the registration form!

Summary: “Looking for an alternative to the typical playgroup?” Then bring your toddler or preschooler to connect with nature in fun, creative ways at Sarasota County Government’s exciting nature program, The Little Naturalist.

The Little Naturalist, for children ages 2 – 4, is from 10:00 – 11:00 AM on Tuesday, October 23, 2012 at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North. This program includes a short guided nature walk, a variety of hands-on nature themed activities, a snack and story. All participating children must be registered and accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.

This preserve is one of many that are available to the public through the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. In addition to the numerous subtropical plants, visitors may observe eagles or osprey hunting over the river corridor.

Participants should wear comfortable weather-appropriate clothes, a jacket, walking shoes that can get wet (no flip-flops!), and bring a hat, sun screen, drinking water and camera (optional). All Sarasota County nature walks prohibit participants from smoking or bringing pets.

Participants can reach the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North, 3462 Border Road, Venice from northbound I-75, by taking exit 193 and then turning right on to Jacaranda Boulevard. From southbound I-75, take exit 193 and turn left on to Jacaranda Boulevard. Proceed north approximately 0.7 miles on Jacaranda Blvd. to the stop sign and turn right onto Border Road. Proceed approximately 2 miles east on Border Road to the bridge over the Myakka River. As you approach the bridge, the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North parking lot will be on the left (north side), immediately before the bridge.

The program minimum is 5 children. Space for this walk is limited to no more than 18 children. For more information and details about the Little Naturalist Program, please contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask to speak with the Little Naturalist Program staff.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Environmental Specialist Jeff Weber on Wednesday, October 24, 2012 from 9 – 11 AM as he leads participants on a nature hike through pine flatwoods and oak hammocks describing the plants and wildlife of Red Bug Slough Preserve.

Red Bug Slough Preserve is one of many natural areas available through the county’s environmental lands program. In addition to a wide variety of native plant species, the preserve is home to bobcats, an occasional river otter, and an assortment of bird species, including red-shouldered hawks, osprey, barred owls and wood ducks.

To get to Red Bug Slough Preserve at 5200 Beneva Road, Sarasota, take I -75 to Exit 205 (S.R. 72 or Clark Road). Go west on Clark Road to Beneva Road and turn right onto Beneva. Continue north on Beneva Road until you reach the preserve parking lot, located west of Beneva Road. Turn left and park in designated spaces.

Pre-registration is required. Space is limited and other requirements apply. Registration closes 48 hours prior to event. Register early, this program fills quickly! On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net. Of note, this is the last program in this series until early April 2013.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalists as they lead a casual kayak journey along the shallow waters of beautiful Lemon Bay launching from Lemon Bay Park on Thursday, October 25, 2012, from 8:30 a.m. to noon. Learn about Florida’s mangroves, seagrasses, and oyster beds in the area. Spy wading birds, explore meandering mangrove tunnels and perhaps catch a glimpse of a manatee or dolphin in the bay waters!

The program is an “intermediate” paddle of approximately 3.5 hours in length and 2.5 miles round-trip on bay waters and narrow mangrove tunnels. Kayak program includes several on-water stops for nature interpretation.

Participants must bring their own kayak, paddle, and safety gear as required by the U.S. Coast Guard. Participants must be able to portage kayak to the kayak/canoe launch (a distance of approximately 320 feet) and down a stepped slope to the water’s edge.

We recommend paddlers wear sun protection and clothes and shoes that can get wet and muddy; and bring insect repellent, snacks and plenty of drinking water. Landings are wet landings therefore wet-shoes are highly recommended. For limited maneuvering in mangrove tunnels, shorter kayak and break-away/short paddle recommended.
To reach Lemon Bay Park and Environmental Center, 570 Bay Park Blvd, Englewood, from the North, take I-75 South to Exit 200, SR 681 South toward Venice traveling approximately 3 miles to South Tamiami Trail/US 41. When SR 681 splits, head left to merge southbound on Tamiami Trail for approximately 2.7 miles to the Venice 41-Bypass. At the 41-Bypass split, keep left onto the 41-Bypass continuing South for another 5.1 miles. Merge right onto FL-776/Englewood Rd and continue on FL-776 for 4.8 miles. Turn right onto Old Englewood Rd for 1 mile. Take slight right onto Kilbourne Ave. Take the 1st right onto Morrison Ave. Take the 1st left onto Curtis Blvd. Take the 1st right onto Brengle Ave, and turn Right into Lemon Bay Park. Meet in the parking lot.

For more information contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 or send an email to jrogers@scgov.net.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Join Sarasota County Parks Naturalists, Lynda Eppinger and E.G. Bennington, a nature walk in search of wildflowers at Urfer Family Park on Friday, October 26, 2012, from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about the plants, a bit of history, and habitat as we traverse herbaceous and forested wetlands, as well as pine flatwoods. Feel miles away in this nearby park nestled in a residential area.

Participants should wear appropriate shoes for walking on both paved and uneven sandy trails. Recommended items to bring are camera/binoculars, water, insect repellent, and sun protection.

To reach Urfer Family Park, take I-75 to Exit 207 Bee Ridge Road west to Honore Avenue, approximately 0.9 miles. Turn left on Honore Avenue. Park will be located on your immediate right with ample parking available after the entrance area. Participants should meet at the pavilion.

For more information, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 or email leppinge@scgov.net.

“Discovering Insects and Their Ways” – A guided insect identification walk at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

Friday, October 26, 2012

9:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Guide: Dr. Fred Santana

Location: Sleeping Turtles Preserve North

3462 Border Road, Venice

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Sarasota County is offering a guided insect identification nature walk at Sleeping Turtles Preserve North in Venice from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m. on Friday, October 26, 2012. Entomologist Dr. Fred Santana will lead participants through pine flatwoods, oak scrub and other habitats found on site.

This preserve is one of many that are available to the public through the Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. In addition to the numerous subtropical plants, visitors may observe eagles or osprey hunting over the river corridor.

Participants can reach the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North, 3462 Border Road, Venice from northbound I-75, take exit 193 and turn right. From southbound I-75 take exit 193 and turn left. Proceed north 1/2 mile on Jacaranda Blvd. to the stop sign and turn right onto Border Road. Proceed approximately 3 miles east on Border Road to the bridge over the Myakka River. As you approach the bridge, the Sleeping Turtles Preserve North parking lot will be on the left (north side), immediately before the bridge.

On-line registration: Available on Sarasota County Sustainable Communities webpage at www.scgov.net.

Summary: Please register now to attend our 7th Annual Sustainable Communities Workshop on October 30, 2012 from 8:00 am- 4:30 pm. Keynote speakers such as Alex Wilson Founder, BuildingGreen, Inc. and Executive Editor, Environmental Building News, and Dr. Lynn Ringenberg, Physicians for Social Responsibility/ Florida and Emeritus Professor Pediatrics at the University of South Florida and many more great speakers along with networking, fun, exhibits; serving breakfast, lunch, and afternoon refreshments which is included in a $30 registration/ $20 student rate. Participate as an exhibitor!

Also join us for the Green Business Leadership Council of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce 2nd Annual “Green Business Roundtable” the evening before, Monday, October 29, 5:00- 7:30 pm at Gold Coast Eagle Distributing, Lakewood Ranch. $20 registration or save with a special “Combo” rate of $45 registration offered by Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce for both the Chamber and Sustainable Communities events. Inquiries can be emailed to npowers@scgov.net.

Pre-registration is required. On-line registration is available at Sarasota County Calendar of Events at www.scgov.net.

Summary: The hunt is on! Come search for fall wildflowers while exploring South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve with Sarasota County volunteers Al Squires and Denny Girard from 9 – 11 a.m. on Wednesday, October 31, 2012. Al and Denny will introduce you to flowers such as blazing star and paintbrush while sharing information about the native vegetation. Participants will pass through a brackish water wetland, a high salinity mangrove area, scrubby flatwoods, and coastal woodlands bordering Lemon Bay.

This is one of many lands that are available through Sarasota County’s Environmentally Sensitive Lands Protection Program. In addition to the numerous subtropical plants, the preserve supports nesting bald eagles, Florida scrub jays and gopher tortoises, all protected animal species. The preserve was the subject of a recent radical and very successful habitat restoration and hydrologic project.

Participants can reach South Venice Lemon Bay Preserve, 6200 Osprey Road, Venice by taking I -75 to Exit 193 (Jacaranda Blvd.). At the end of the exit ramp, turn south onto Jacaranda Boulevard and drive approximately 5.2 miles. At the “T” intersection of Jacaranda Blvd. and Englewood Road (State Road 776), turn left (south). Drive approximately 1.5 miles and turn west on to Manasota Beach Road. Continue about a mile until the road curves left. At the curve turn right onto Belvidere Road. Next turn right onto Pheasant Road then left onto Macon Road. Turn left onto Osprey Road and park in the lot at the end of the street.